Backyard Conservation

Farmers, ranchers, and many homeowners are taking part in natural resource protection. You can join their conservation tradition, right in your own yard!

There are nearly 2 billion acres of land in the United States. About 70% of that land is privately owned, and care of that land is in the hands of those who live and work on it. Most of that land (about 1.4 billion acres) is managed by farmers and ranchers. However, more than 92 million acres of land - an area the size of California - is privately developed and much of it is tended by homeowners. The following tip sheets are designed to help you use conservation practices similar to those used in agriculture, but with the average urban or suburban homeowner in mind.

We hope that you'll enjoy these activities that help bring beauty and diversity to your yard - whether your "yard" is measured in acres, feet, or flower pots. These practices are meant to benefit the environment and help wildlife, but with the bonus of making your yard more attractive and enjoyable. To get started, just click on a picture below to download a PDF file for the activities you're interested in implementing. We know you'll feel good about improving the environment and joining America's conservation tradition.